EP2934979A1

EP2934979A1 - System and method for identifying vehicle by utilizing detected magnetic field

Info

Publication number: EP2934979A1
Application number: EP13865043.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Sascha SIMON
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-12-21
Filing date: 2013-12-19
Publication date: 2015-10-28
Also published as: KR20150102065A; AU2013361332B2; CN105008203A; US9333946B2; WO2014100343A1; KR101772302B1; AU2013361332A1; ZA201504923B; CN105008203B; US20140180615A1; BR112015014766A2

Abstract

A device (402) includes a field-detecting component (412), an input component (414), an accessing component (416), a comparing component (418) and an identifying component (420). The field-detecting component (412) can detect a field (406) and generate a detected field signature based thereon. The input component (414) can input (he detected field signature into a database (404). The accessing component (416) can access the detected field signature item the database (404). The comparing component (418) can generate a comparison signal. The identifying component (420) can identify item or location based on the comparison signal. The field-detecting component (412) can further detect a second field and generate a second detected field signature based on the detected second field. The comparing component (418) can generate the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the second detected field signature.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING VEHICLE BY TUAi G

DETECTED MAGNETIC FIELD

|6O0l j The rese application claims priority from: U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 /740,814 filed December 21 , 2012; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/740,831 filed December 2 ? , 2012; U.S. P o isional Application No. 61/740,851 filed December 21, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/745,677 filed December 24, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

|0 82| Vehicle telematics is the technology of sencbag, receiving and storing information to and from vehicles and is generally present (at least to a limited extent) in the automotive marketplace today. For example, both General Motors (through their OnStar ofiering) and Mercedes Beaz < through their Tele-Aid sad more recent mbraee system oiienng) have long offered connected-vehicle functionality to their customers. Both of these offerings make use of the data available on a vehicle's CAN bus, which is specified in the QBD~ll vehicle diagnostics standard. For example, the deployment of an airbag, which suggests that the vehicle has beets involved in a crash, may be detected by monitoring the CAN bus. In this event, a digital wireless telephony module that is embedded in the vehicle and connected to the vehicle's audio system (i.e., having voice connectivity) can initiate a phone call to a telematics service provider (TSP) to "report" the crash. Vehicle location may also be provided to the TSP using the vehicle^'s GPS functionality. Once the call Is established, the TSP representative may attempt to communicate with the vehicle drive*, using the vehicle's audio system, to assess the severity of the situation. Assistance may thus be dispatched by the TSP representative to the vehicle as appropriate.

|βΟ03| Historically, these services were focused entirely on driver and passenger safety. These types of services have expanded since their initial roll-ont, however, and now offer additional estores to the driver, such as concierge services. The services, however, remain mainly focused on voice based driver to call center comrmuucatioB, with data services being only slowly introduced, hindered b low bandwidth communication modules, high cost and only partial availability on some model lines. | 004| As a result, while generally functional, vehicle telematics services have experienced only limited commercial acceptance in the marketplace. There are several reasons for this, in addition to low speeds and and idt , most vehicle drivers (perhaps excluding the premium automotive market niche) are reluctant to pay extra tor vehicle telematics services, either m the form of an upfront payment f i.e., mare expensive vehicle) or a recurring {moniMy/y early) service fee. Moreover, from, the vehicle manufacturer's perspective, the services require additional hardware to be embedded into the vehicle, resulting is extra costs on the order of $250 to $350 or more per vehicle which cannot be recouped. Thus,, manufacturers have been slow to rally commit to or invest in the provision of vehicle telematics equipment in all vehicles.

| 0Θ5| There have bees rudimentary attempts in the past to determine when a smartphone is in a moving vehicle. Wireless service provider AT&T, Sprint and Verizon, for example, offer a smartphone application that reacts is a specific manner to incoming text messages and voice calls when a phone is .in what AT&T calls D:riveMode^m With the AT&T DriveMode application, a wireless telephone is considered to be in "drive made^" when oue of two conditions are met. First, the smartphone operator cat) manually turn on the application, i.e., she "tells" the application to enter drive mode. Alternatively, when the DriveMode application is is automatic on/off mode and the sniartpsone GPS sensor sesses that the smartphose is travelling at greater tiran 25 mile per how, the GPS sensor so mforms the DriveMode application, the DriveMode application concludes that the smartphone is is a moving vehicle, and drive mode is entered.

| 0Θ6| Both of these paths to engaging the AT&T DriveMode application - the "manual" approach to entering drive mode aad the "automatic" approach to catering drive mode - are problematic. First, if the smartphone operator forgets or simply chaoses not to launch the DriveMode application prior to driving the vehicle when the a lication is in manual mode then the application will not launch. Second, in automatic on/off mode AT&T's use of only the GPS sensor to determiae when a smartphone is is a moving vehicle is problematic for a number of reasons. First, the speed threshold of the application is arbitrary, meaning that drive mode will not be detected/engaged at less than 25 mph. If the vehicle is stopped in traffic or at a traffic signal, .for example, then the DriveMode application may inadvertently terminate. Second, and perhaps more importantly, AT&T's DriveMode application requires that the sroartpnone's GPS functionality be turned on si all times. Because the use of a stnartphone's GPS sensor is extremely demanding to the battery resources of a s artphone, this requirement severely undennines the usefulness of AT&T^'s application. Thirdly this method does not differentiate between the type of vehicle that the phone is in, e.g. a us, s taxi or a train sod therefore allows no correlation between the owner of the phono and her driving situation. For fee classic embedded telematics devices to be 'replaces by smartphones it is important to correlate fe driver and smartphone owner with her personal vehicle. Only then the smartphone can truly take the functional role of an embedded telematics device in a vehicle.

P©0?! Accordingly, for at least the foregoing reasons there exists a need and k is art objec of the present invention to provide ars improved method and apparatus of determining the specific identity and type of vehicle a smartphone is in.

SUMMARY

ftKKlSf The presexrt invention provides an hnptwed method and apparatus of deternrinfeg fee specific identity and type of vehicle smartphone is in.

1 0Θ9| Various embodiments described herei arc drawn to a device, .for use wife a database. The device includes a field-detecting component an input component, an accessing component, a comparing component and an identifying component The field-detecting component can detect at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electromagnetic field and can generate s detected field, signature based on. the detected one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an eleetro-msgnetic iieid. The input component can input fee detected field signature into fee database. The accessing component can access the detected field signature from the database. The comparing component caa generate a comparison signal. The identifying component can identify one of an item, and a location based on the comparison signal.. The field-detecting component can further detect a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field and can generate a second detected field signature based on the detected second one of an electric field, s magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field. The comparing component can generate the comparison signal based on a comparison of fee detected field signature and the second defected field signature. Hi-^' SUMMARY O I RE DRAWINGS

|00!0f The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and, together st the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, hi the drawings:

|©»l l| FIGs. IA~€ illustrate a person and a vehicle at times _/, h and respectively;

100121 FIGs. 2A-B illustrate a house asd a building, respectively;

|β013| FIG- 3 illustrates an example method of identifying an item or a location is accordance with aspects of the present invention;

|0014f FIG. illustrates an example device for identifying an item or a location is accordance with aspects of the present, invention;

§001 S FIG, 5 illustrates an. example method of registering an item or a ^'location m accordance with aspects of the present invention;

|0016f FIG. & illustrates an example of measured magnetic fields associated with a vehicle in accordance wife aspects of the present invention;

|0017 FIG, 7 Illustrates another example of measured, magnetic fields associated with a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

| 018| FIG. 8 illustrates another example of measured magnetic fields associated with a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the preseni invention;

|0019f FIG. 9 illustrates an example of measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated sth a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

|0020| FIG, 10 illustrates another example of -measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated with a vehicle in accordance wsth aspects of the present invention; 0021^'| FIG. 11 illustrates another example of measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated wsth a veh icle in accordance with aspects of the present i n vention;

|0022| FIG, 12 illustrates an example method of detecting an item or a location, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and |β»23| FIC3. 13 illustrates an example method of verifying an item or a location is accordance with aspects of the present invention.

DET AI LED DESCRIPTIO

1 02 1 Aspects of the present invention are drawn to a system and method for determining a specific item and/or location by utilising field properties within and/or near the specific item and or location,

| 025| As used herein,, th term "smartphone" includes cellular and/or satellite rediotelcphoncfs) with or without a display {text/graphical_.}; Personal Communications System (PCS) termiuai(s) that may combine a radiotelephone with data processing, facsimile and/or data communications capabilities^* Personal Digital Assistant(s) (PDA) or other devices that can include a radio frequency transceiver and a pager, internet/intranet access, Web browser, organiser, calendar and/or a. global positioning system (GPS) receiver, and/or conventional laptop (notebook) and/or palmtop (aetbook) computers), tablets), or other appliaaee(s), which include a radio frequency transceiver. As used herein, the term "smartphone " also includes any other radiatin user device that may have time-varying or fixed geographic coordinates and/or may be portable, transportable, installed is a vehicle (aeronautical, maritime, or land-based? and or situated and/or configured to operate locally and/or in a distributed fashion over one or more locatios(s).

|0026| In one non-limiting example embodiment, a smartphone is used to me s re a magnetic field associated with a. vehicle to identify the vehicle, in another non-limiting example embodiment, a smartphone is used to measure a magnetic field associated with a house to identify the location of the user of the smartphone. These aspects will now be described in more detail with reference to FIGs. ! A-2B, f0 i2?f As shown in FIG, 1A, at time t_h a magnetic field m is located near vehicle 1.02. For purposes of discussion, person 164 is holding a device (not shown) in accordance with as aspect of the present invention, i this specific example, the device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention is embodied in a smartphone. ^'In this specific example, the smartphone s able to detect magnetic field 106. |8828| As shown in FIG, IB, at time t_i} the opening of door 108 affects the magnetic field located near vehicle 1 2, as shown by filed lines 110. Again the smartphone is able to detect magnetic field shown by field lines 118.

| 029| As shows in FIG. 1€, at time ¾, the smartphone is n t detecting die magnetic field outside of vehicle J.82. fO030f in accordance with example aspects of the present invention, a smartphone carried by ^•person 104 may identify vehicle J 02 by aspects of magnetic field. 1.82 or magnetic field 108, Non-limiting detectable aspects of the magnetic fields include an instantaneous magnitude, an instantaneous field vector, a magnitude as function over a period of time, a field vector a a function o ver a period of time and combinations thereof

|00311 in accordance with other example aspects of the present invention, a smartphone carried by person 184 may identify vehicle 1.02 by aspects of a change of magnetic field 182 to magnetic field 108. Non-limiting detectable aspects of the change magnetic fields include an instantaneous change in magnitude, an instantaneous change in field vector, a change in magnitude as a function over a period of time, a change in field vector as a function over a period of time a:tid combinations thereof

|0032| I addition to identifying an item, as discussed above with reference to FlGs. lA-!C, aspects of the present invention may be used to identify a location. f 8033| As shown in FIG, 2A, at time a person 204 is entering a house 202. A magnetic field 286 ss located near house 202. For purposes of discussion, person 284 is holding device (not shown) in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, in this specific example, the device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention is embodied in a smartphone. In this specific example, the smartphone is able to detect magnetic field 18n

|8034| As shown in FIG. 2B„ at time i_>, person 284 is entering a building 208. A magnetic field 21.8 is located near building 208. Again the smartphone is able to detect magnetic field 210. fO03S| hi accordance with example aspects of the present invention, a smartphone carried, by person 184 may identify whether person 284 is entering house 202 or buildin 208 by aspects of magnetic field 206 or magnetic field 218. |©»3δ| A more detailed discussion of example working embodiment will now be discussed with additional reference to FIGs. 3-13.

|tt03?| FIG. 3 illustrates an example method 300 of identifying an item or a location in accordance with aspects of the present mventiort.

|O03S| Method 300 starts (S3 2) and an stem or location is registered (S304). For example, if a person would like to be able to identify their vehicle, the vehicle would be registered based oo. a field a socia ed wills the vehicle, whereas if a person, would like to be able to identify a location such as their place of work, then the location would be registered based on a field associated with the vehicle. A more detailed discussion of registration will .now be provided with additional reference to FIGs. 4-1 1.

|0039| FIG. 4 illustrates an example device 482 for identifying as item or a location s accordance with aspects off he present invention.

|β04θ| FIG. 4 includes a de i e 402, a database 404, a field 466 and a network 408. Is this example embodiment, device 402 and database 404 are distinct elements. However, in some embodiments, device 402 and database 484 may be a. unitary device as indicated by dotted line 418. f 004: . f Device 402 includes a field-detecting component 412, an input component 4:14, an accessing component 416, a comparmg component 418, aa identifying component 426, a parameter-detecting component 422, a communication component 424, a verification component.426 and a controlling component.428. f 042f In. this example, field-detecting component 412, input component 41.4, accessing component 416, comparing component 4:1.8, identifying component 420, parameter-detecting component 422, communication component 424, verification component 426 and controlling component 428 are illustrated as individual devices. However, in some embodiments, at least two of field-detecting component 412, input component 414, accessing component 416, comparing component 418, identifying component 420, parameter-detecting component 422, connnunicatioo component 424, verification component 426 and controlling component 428 ma be combined as a unitary device. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of field- detecting component 412, inpu component 414, accessing component 41.6, comparing component 418, identifying component 420, parameter-detecting component 422, communication component 424, verification com onent 426 aod controlling component 428 may be implemented as a computer having tangible computer-readable media for carrying or having con^ufcr-exeeutable instructions or data, structures stored tbereon. Such tangible computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. Non-limiting examples of tangible computet-readabie media include physical storage and/or memory media such as RAM, ROM, EEP OM, CD- ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. For mformation transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (eitber hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a computer, the- computer may properly view the connection as a computer-readable medium. Thus, any such connection may be properly termed a computer- readable medium. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

|P843| Control hog component 428 is arranged to communicate with: field-detecting component 412 via a communication line 430; input component 414 via a communication line 432; accessing component 416 via a communication line 434; comparing component 418 via a communication line 436; identifying component 420 via a communication line 438; parameter-detecting component 422 via a communication line 440; communication component 424 via a communication line 442; and verification component 426 via a commuuicatios line 444. Controlling component 428 is operable to control each of field- detecting component 412, input component 414, accessing component 416, comparing component 418, identifying component 420, parameter-detecting component 422, communication component 424 and verification component 426.

£O044f Field-detecting component 412 is additionally arranged to detect field 406, to communicate with iaput component 414 via a communication line 446, to communicate with comparing component 418 via a communication line 448 and to communicate with parameter-detecting component 422 via a communication line 445. Field-detecting component 412 may be any known device or system that is operable to detect a field, -non- limiting examples of which include an electric field, s magnetic field, and electro-nragnetic field and com inatio s thereof. In some non-limiting example embodiments, field-detecting component 4i 2 may detect die amplitude of a field at an instant of time. In some non- limiting example embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may detect a field vector at as instant of tsme. in some rson-iirsitmg example embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may detect the amplitude of a field as a function over a period of time, in some nan-limiting example embodiments, field-detecting component 4.12 .may detect a field vector as a function over a period of time. In some non-Hrsttssg example embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may detect a change in the amplitude of s field as a function over a period of time. In some non imiting example embodim nt, field-detecting component 412 may detect a change is a field vector as a function over a period of time. fO045j Input component 414 is additionally arranged to communicate with database 404 via a eoramunicatios line 450 and to communicate with verification component 426 via a communication line 452. Input component 414 may be any known device or system that is operable to input data into database 4d4. ^'Μαη-!imiting examples of in ut component 414 include a graphic user interface (GUI) having a user interactive touch screen or keypad, fO046j Accessing component 416 is additionally arranged to communicate with database 464 via a communication line 454 asd to communicate with comparing component 418 via a cotrtmunicsdos Sine 456. Accessing component 416 may be any known device or system that access data from database 404. 9 7} Comparing component 418 is additionally arranged to communicate with identifying component 20 via a communication line 458. Comparing component 418 may he any known device or system that is operable to compare two inputs.

|β04Β| Pam eter-deteeting component 422 is additionally arranged to communicate with identifying component 422 via a communication line 46Θ. Parameter-defecting component 422 may be any known device or s tem that is operable to detect a parameter, non-limiting examples of which include velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometrics, contents of surrounding atmosphere and combinations thereof. In some non-limiting example embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may detect the amplitude of a parameter at an instant of time. In some non-limiting example embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may detect a parameter vector at an instant of time, in some non-iimiting example embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may detect the am l ude of a parameter as a function over a period of time. in some non-limiting example embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may detect a parameter vector as s fact on over s period of time. In some non^imhiug exam le embodiments, parameter-deteeting eompo&ent 422 may detect a change in the amplitude of a parameter ss a function over a period of time. In some non-limiting example embodiments, parameter- detecting component 422 may detect a change m a parameter vector as a function over a period of time.

|00491 Communication component 424 is additionally arranged to communicate with ^•network 408 via a communicatio line 462. Communication: component 424 may he any .known device or system that is operable to communicate with network 408. Non-limiting examples of communication component include a wired and a wireless transmiae receiver. 0050| Verification component 426 may he an known device or system that is operable to provide a request for verification. Non-limiting examples of verification component 420 include graphic user interface having a us r interactive touch sc een or keypad.

10051 1 Commtmicatiou lines 430, 432, 434, 436, 438, 449, 442, 444, 445, 446, 448, 450, 452, 454, 456, 58, 60 and 462 may be any known wired or wireless communication line,

|00521 Database 404 may be an known device or system that is operable to receive, store, organize and provide (upon, a request) data, wherein the "database" refers to me data itself and supporting data structures. No.n i.mitmg examples of database 404 include a memory hard-drive and a semiconductor memory. 0053| Network 408 may be any known linkage of two or .more communication devices. on- limiting examples of database 408 include a wide-area, network, a local-area network and the internet,

P0S4| For purposes of discussion, consider the example where a. person, is registering their vehicle. In some example embodiments, the vehicle may be registered based on an approach and entry into die vehicle as discussed above with reference to PIGs, 1A-C In some example embodiments, tlic vehicle may be registered based upon fields detected while die person using tlic device is within the vehicle. For purposes of discussion, consider die example where a person is registering their vehicle while sitting in the vehicle. In some example embodiments, the registration may be performed based upon fields detected while the vehicle is in a specific mode of operation, noa-H it g examples of which include starting up, driving forward, driving in reverse, stopped, accelerating, decelerating and combinations thereof For purposes of discussion, consider the following example where s person is registering their vehicle based on the starting up of the vehicle. This example will now be described with additional reference to FIG. S.

|©»S5| FIG, 5 illustrates m example method 508 of registering an item or a location is accordance with aspects of the present invention.

10 561 Method 500 starts <S502) and a field .is detected <S50 ). For example, returning to FIG, 4, field-detecting component 412 detects field 06, For purposes of discussion, let field 406 be a magnetic field correspondin to the superposition of magnetic fields generated by all electronic and mechanical systems involved with the ignition of the vehicle. Some example detected field will now be described with greater detail with reference to FIGs. 6-8.

1 057| FIG. 6 illustrates an example of measured magnetic fields associated with a specific vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

|08581 FIG. 6 includes a graph 6tt2, a graph 604, a graph 606 and a graph 60S, each of which share a common x-axis 610 is units of seconds. Graph 602 has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function 6 2. Graph 604 has a y-axis in unsis of μΤ and includes a function 614. Graph 606 has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function 616. Graph 608 has a y-axis in units of j f and includes a function 18.

|00S9| Function 612 corresponds to the absolute value of the magnitude of a magnetic field vector (B) of the vehicle. Function 614 corresponds to the magnitude of B in a z-direcfioa relative to field-detecting component 412. Function 616 corresponds to the magnitude of B in a y-dircction relative to field-detecting component 412. Function 618 corresponds to the magnitude of B in an x-direction relative to field-detecting component 412.

|0δ¾ | A sodden change in the magnetic field manifests as spike 620 in function 6 J 2, as spike 622 in function 614. as spike 624 is function 616 and as spike 626 in function 618. This spike may be indicative of as event. For purposes of discussion, let this sudden change in the magnetic field correspond to the ignition of a particular vehicle. In this example therefore, the vehicle may have a signature based on functions 612, 61 , 616 and 18, having tel1~ia.il spikes 620, 622, 624 and 626, respectively. These f nct o s may be easily distinguished fxom signatures based on different events, ss will now be described with reference to IG, 7,

§006 FIG. 7 illustrates another example of racasxsrcd magnetic fields associated with a second vehicle in accordance with, aspects of the present invention. fO062f FIG. 7 includes a graph 762, a graph 70 , a graph 7 6 and graph 768, each of which share a common x-axss 710 in. units of seconds. Graph 702 has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function 712, Graph 704 has a y-axis in units of pT and includes a function 714. Graph 706 has a y-axis in units of μΤ aad includes a function 716. Graph 708 has a y-axis in units of μΤ au includes a function 718,

100631 Function 712 corresponds to the absolute value of the magnitude of a B of the second vehicle. Function 714 corresponds to the magnitude of B m a x-direetion relative to field- detecting component 412, Function 716 corresponds to the magnitude of B in a y-direetion relative to field-detecting component 412. Function 71.8 corresponds to the magnitude of B in m x-directksn relative to ficld-detceting component 412. 0 641 B comparing the overall magnitudes of the detected magnetic fields between FIG. 6 and FIG, 7 t is clear that tire fields are associated with two different vehicles. However, there are additional differences between the detected fields worth noting. A change in the magnetic field of FIG. 7 manifests as a curve 720 in function 712 , as a curve 722 in function 714, as a curve 724 in function 71.6 and as a spike 726 in function 718, A commonality of each, of these features is a rotation of the magnetic field, which may be indicative of an event. In this example, the relatively smooth transition of the magnetic field in more than one axis as shown in function 714 and 716, is indicative of a smooth movement of the detecting device within the detected magnetic field. For purposes of discussion, Set this smooth ehange in the magnetic field correspond to the person, holding the device, entering a vehicle. Also noteworthy is a su en change 728 in function 718. This change which is detected in only one axis may be indicative of another event. For purposes of discussion, let this sudden ehange correspond to ignition of the vehicle. Therefore, in this example, the action of entering a specific vehicle and starting that specific vehicle may have a signature based on (unctions 712, 714, 716 and 718. |©865| FIG. 8 illustrates another am le of meas red ma e ic fields associated with a third vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

|0066j FIG. 8 includes a graph. 862, a graph 804, a graph 806 and a graph 868, each of which share a commoa x-axis 810 in units of seconds. Graph 802 has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function 812. Graph 804 has s y~ax in units of μΤ and. includes a function 814. Graph 806 has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function 816. Graph 80S has a y-axis in units of μΤ and includes a function. 818. f0067] Function 812 corresponds to the absolute value of the magnitude of a 8 of the third vehicle. Function 814 corresponds to the magnitude of B in a z-direction relative to .field- detecting component 412. Function 816 corresponds to the magnitude of B in a y-dhection relative to field-detecting component 412, Function 818 corresponds to the magnitude of .8 in an x-direction relative to field-detecting component 412. f0068f A sudden change in the magnetic field manifests as a curve 820 in function 812, as s spike 822 in function 814, as a spike 824 in function 816 and as a spike 826 in function 818. A commonality of each of these fea tures is a brief rotation of the magnetic field, which may be indicative of so. event. In this example, th very brief rotation of the magnetic field is more than one axis, is indicative of a rotation the detecting device within die detected magnetic field. For purposes of discussion, let this quick change in the magnetic field correspond to the person, holding the device, entering a vehicle. Also noteworthy is a small bump 828 in function 812, a small bump 830 in function 814 and a small bump 832 in function 816. This small bump, which is detected in only two axes may be indicative of another event. For purposes of discission, let this change correspond to ignition of the vehicle. Therefore, in mis example, the action of entering a specific vehicle and starting that specific vehicle may have a signature based on functions 812, 814, 81.6 and 818.

|0069| Returning to FIG, 5, once the field is detected <SS04), a signature is generated (S506). In some embodiments,, for example as shown in FIG. 4, field-detecting component 412 may generate a signature of the vehicle based any of functions 612, 61 , 616, 618 of FIG. 6, and combinations thereof in some embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may additionally process my of functions 612, 614, 16, 61.8 and. combinations thereof to generate such a signature. Non-limiting examples of further processes include averaging, adding, subtracting, and transforming any of functions 612, 614, 16, 18 and combinations thereof |©»7Θ| Returning to FIG, 5, once the signatures is generated (S506), the signature; is input into memory (S5 8). For example, as shown in FIG. 4. field-detecting component 412 ^•provides the signature to input component 414 via communication line 446. f007t| In an example embodiment, input component 414 includes a GUI that informs a user of device 402 that a signature has been generated. Input component 414 may additionally enable the user to input an association betweas and item or location and the generated signature. For example, input component 414 may display on a GUI a message such as "A signature was generated. To what item/location is the signature associated?" Input component 4 4 may then: display an input prompt for the user to input, vi toe GUI as item/location to be associated with the generated signature.

|0O72 input component 414 may then provide the signature, and the association to a specific item or location, to database 404 via communication line 450, 073| As discussed above, in some embodiments, database 404 is part of device 402, whereas in other embodiments, database 404 is separate from device 402. Data input and retrieval from database 404 may he fester when database 404 part of device 402, as opposed to cases where database 464 is distinct from device 402, However, size may be a concern when designing device 402, particularly when device 402 is intended to be a handheld device such as a smartphone. As such, device 402 may be much smaller when database 404 is distinet trom device 402, ss opposed to esses where database 404 is part of devsee 402, fO074| Consider an example embodiment, where database 404 is part of device 402. In such eases, input component 414 may enable a. user to input signatures and the item/location associations, for a predetermined number of items/locations, hi this manner, database 404 will only be used for device 402.

|0075| Now consider an example embodiment, where database? 404 is separate from device 402. Further, let database 404 be much larger than the case where database 404 is part of device 402. Still further, let database 404 be accessible to other devices in accordance with aspects of the present invention . In such cases, input component 414 may enable a user to input signatures and the item/location associations, for a much larger predetermined number of items/locations. Further, in such eases, input component 414 may enable other users of similar devices to input signatures and the item/location associations,, tor eves more items/locations. »76| An example embodiment may use the differentiating magnetic field properties between different vehicle types and makes to identify the different vehicle types sad makes. Today's vehicles arc folly equipped with electronic and mechanical actuators and switches, engine subsystems. All these subsystems are generating their own electromagnetic and magnetic fields and therefore will alter the overall three-dimensional properties and field strength .fluctuations of the vehicle interior. Particularly the ignition of a v ehicle generates a characteristic magnetic flux for every vehicle. Aspects of the present invention include s storing these field properties as signatures within database 464 through measurements in the near field within the vehicle interior for a reference group of make and models. As such, any user of a device may be able to identify a registered v ehicle within database 404. Thus, through previously stored signatures and additional measurements, the present invention enables a library of vehicular electromagnetic signatures. This library may he augmented with additional measurements describing the electromagnetic signatures of different vehicles. This will be described m greater detail later with reference to FIG. 1.3.

|β0?7| At this point, method 501⁾ stops (SS10).

| 07i| In the examples discussed above with respect to FiGs. 6-8, field-detecting component 412 is detecting magnetic fields as field vectors as functions over a period of time. The detected signals illustrated in FiGs, 6-8 are easily distinguishable from one another. Accordingly, the vehicles associated therewith, respectively, may additionally be easily distinguishable from one another.

|O079| Returning to FIG. 5, method 50Θ may involve the detection of additional parameters to associate with an item or location. Specifically, additional aspects of the present invention are drawn to a system and method for determining a specific item and/or location by utilizing: .1 ) field properties within and/or near the specific item and or location; and 2) additionally detected parameters. In one son-limiting example embodiment, a smartphone is used to measure a magnetic field associated wsth a vehicle, and to measure velocity aod/aeee!erabou whether the user of the smartphone is in an identified vehicle. |©08θ| For example, returning to FIG. , parameter-detecting component 422 may be used to delect another parameter for use in detecting the vehicle. For purposes of discussion, consider the example where a person i registering their vehicle based on the walking up to the vehicle, entering the vehicle and starting up of the vehicle, wherein parameter-detecting component 422 measu ed various accelerations of the device as it is being earned by the person. This example will sow be described with additional reference to FIGs. 9-11.

|©08Ι| FIG. 9 illustrates an example of measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated with die device being carried in accordance with aspects of ie present invention.

\W 2\ FIG, 9 includes graph 602, graph 694, graph 606 and graph 608, in addition to a graph 902, a graph 904, a graph. 906, a graph 908, a graph 91.0 and a graph 912, each of which share a common x-axis 914 in units of seconds. FIG. 9 additionally includes a line 916. Graph 902 has a y-axis in units of m s" and include a function 918, Graph 904 has a y- axis in units o xu/s" and includes a tunetion 920. Graph 906 has s y-axis in units of n sf and includes a function 922. Graph. 908 has a y~axis in units of degrees and includes a function 924. Graph 9J0 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 926. Graph 9J 2 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 928. 0083| Function 918 corresponds to the acceleration in a di ection relative to parameter- deteermg component 422. Function 920 corresponds to the acceleration in a y~direetio& relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 922 corresponds to the acceleration in an x-direc ion relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 924 corresponds to the angular acceleration is a yaw direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 926 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a pitch direction, relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function. 928 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a roll direction relative to paian¾eier-deiecting component 422, §84| As noted, function 929, the acceleration in the y-direciion, changes dramatically. This corresponds to the up and down motion of a person walking. Farther, a spike 930 corresponds to motion of the person sitting into the vehicle. A second spike 932 corresponds to the large vibration coincident with starting of the vehicle. As discussed above, spikes 620, 622, 624 and 626 correspond to the deieeted magnetic field associated with ignition of the vehicle. Now these two separate parameters may be analyzed together to more clearly identify an event. In this example, a person is walking to, entering and starting a vehicle. As shown in each of functions 918, 92© and 922, the dramatic variations in detected acceleration is each axis (after the vehicle has been started as evidenced by the spikes is the detected magnetic fields of functions 612, 614, 616 and 61.8) may be explained by way of the vibrations of the vehicle now that it is running. This is particularly telling b function 918, or the acceleration is the z-axis (toward the vehicle). As the person is walking toward the vehicle, the constant walking velocity registers as no change in acceleration m this axis. However, after the vehicle is started, which shows as spite 934 in function 918, acceleration changes in the s-axis as a result of the vehicle vibrating from the engine,

|tt08S| Functions 924. 926 and 928 are shown here as further non-limiting examples of additional parameters that may be detected for use to identify a vehicle or location . In this example however, it should be noted that functions 928 include a spike 936. This spike is tire "roll" rotational axis is indicative that the device is being rolled, which may correspond to the phone being in the user's band when entering the vehicle. This further supports the ^•notion that a person is entering a vehicle. This evidence in conjunction with the magnetic and acceleration signatures may be used to accurately identify the vehicle. f©086| The additionally detected parameter, in the above example of WIG. 9, reduces the likelihood of false positive idestifleafion of a vehicle with only a magnetic signature, is accordance with aspects of the present, invention, the use of additional parameter signatures may provide evidence to correctly identify a vehicle ···· or if the case ma be - correctly identify a location.

|β087| in some embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may generate an output associated with the vehicle based any of functions 91.8, 920, 922, 924, 926, 928 and combinations thereof in some embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may additionally process any of functions 91$, 920, 922. 924, 926, 928 and combinations thereof to generate such an output. Non-limiting examples of further processes include averaging, adding, subtracting, and transforming any of functions 918, 920, 922, 924, 926, 928 and combinations thereof In any of these embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may then generate a signature of the vehicle based an o functions 612, 614, 616, 618 and combinations thereof and based on the output generated by parameter-detecting component 422. |©888| FIG. 10 illustrates another example of measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated with a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

1 089 FIG. 10 includes graph. 782, graph 784, graph 706 arid graph 788, in addition to a graph 1002, a graph 1004, a graph 1.006, a graph 1008, a graph 1810 and a graph 1012, each of which share a common x-axis 1014 in units of seconds. FIG. 10 additionally includes a line 1016. Graph 1882 has a y-axis in units of m^!≠ and includes a function 1818. Graph 1884 has a y-axis in units of and includes a function 820. Graph 1.006 has a y-axis is units of m/s^" and includes a function 1.022. Graph 1808 has a y-axis in units of degrees and Includes a function 1024. Graph 1010 ^'has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 1026. Graph J.©! 2 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 1028. fO09O Function .1818 corresponds to the acceleration in a ^--direction relative to parameter- detecting component 422. Function 1020 corresponds to the acceleration in a y-direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 1022 corresponds to the acceleration in an ^-direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function .024 corresponds to the angular acceleration is a yaw direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 1026 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a pitch direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function 1.028 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a roll direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422.

|O0911 As discussed above with reference to FlGs. 6-7, by comparing the overall magnitudes of the detected magnetic fields between FIG, 9 and FIG, 18, it is clear that the Folds are associated with two different vehicles. However, there are additional differences ^'between the detected parameters wo th noting. As noted by functions 1818, 1.020 and 1022, the acceleration changes very little until changes in the detected magnetic field as noted b 720, 724, 728 and 732. At this point in time, as evidenced by variations 1030, 1832 and 1 34, the acceleration-detecting component is "jostled" in all three axes. This corresponds to the relatively constant motion of a person walking, followed by the person entering the vehicle, furthermore, as noted by function 1824, 1.826 and 1028 there is a generally constant yaw pitch and roll until the changes in the detected magnetic field as noted b 720, 724, 728 and 732. At this point in time, as evidenced by double variations 1036, ΙΘ38 and 1040, the rotation-detecting component is "^"spun ' in all three axes. These signatures, in conjunction with the relatively low acceleration as noted in functions 1018, 1820 and 1822, may be explained by the device being carried in a purse, for example, in such a case, being carded in a porse would buffer changes in acceleration, which is reflected in the relatively calm functions 1018, 1020 and 1022. When the person eaters the vehicle and the purse is spun around and place in a seat, double variations 1036, 1038 and 1040 may result. This is further evidenced by the lack of acceleration or movement detected in any of functions 1.018, 102 , 1622, 1024, 1 26 and 1028 after entering the vehicle.

|©892| in some embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may generate an output associated with the vehicle based any of functions 1018, 1620, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1628 and combinations thereof, in some embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may additionally process any of functions 101.8, 1020, 1022, 1024, 1»26, 1028 and combinations thereof to generate such an output. M on-limiting examples of further processes include averaging, adding, subtracting, and transforming any of functions 1018, 1020, 1022, 1024, 1626, 1028 and combinations thereof, in any of these embodiments, field-detecting component 412 may then generate a signature of the vehicle based any of functions 612, 614, 616, 618 and combinations thereof and based on the output generated b parameter-detecting component 422. 6093| FIG, 11 illustrates another example of measured magnetic fields and of measured acceleration associated wife a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 0094| FIG. 1 1 includes graph 802, graph 864, graph 806 and graph 808, in addition to s graph 1162, a graph Π04, a graph 1.186, a graph 108, a graph 1110 and a graph 11 2, each of which share a common x-axis 1114 in units of seconds. FIG, 11 additionally iaciij ies a Sine 1.116. Graph 1102 has a y-axis in units of txtiY and include a function 11.18. Graph 1104 has a y-axis in units of m s* and includes a function 1120. Graph 1166 has a y-axis in units of rn/s^'; and includes a function 11.22. Graph 1108 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 1124. Graph 1 10 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function .1126, Graph 111.2 has a y-axis in units of degrees and includes a function 1128.

|0 9S| Function 1118 corresponds to the acceleration in a z-direction relative to parameter- detecting component 422. Function 1 20 corresponds to the acceleration in s y-direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. function 1122 corresponds to the acceleration in an ^--direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422, Function 1124 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a yaw direction relative to parameter-detecting component 422. Function J 126 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a pitch direction relative to parameter-detecting componen 422. Function 1128 corresponds to the angular acceleration in a roll direction relative to parameter-dcteci g component 422.

|O096| By comparing the overall magnitudes of d e detected magnetic fields between FlGs. it is clear the fields arc associated with differen vehicles. However, these arc additional differences between the detected parameters worth noting. As noted by tactio s 1138, 1132 and 1134 of functions 1118, 1121 arxi 1122, respectively, the acceleration changes drastically in correspondence with changes is die detected magnetic field as noted b 8211, 822, 824 and 826. As discussed above, with reference to FIG. 8, this corresponds to entry into the vehicle. Further, as noted by spikes 1136, 138 and 1146 of inactions 18, 112© and 1122, respectively, the acceleration changes drastically in correspondence with changes is the detected magnetic field as noted by 82$, 830 and 832. As discussed above, with reference to FIG. 8, this ignition of the vehicle. At this point in time, as evidenced by spikes 11.36, 11.38 and 11 », the acceleration detecting componen is "jostled" in all three axes. W7f Furthermore, as noted by function 1.124, 1 26 and 1.128 there is a generally constant yaw pitch and roll until the changes in the detected magnetic field as noted by 826, $22._. 824 and 826. At this point in time, as evidenced by changes 1142, 1.144 and 1146, the rotation- detecting component is "spun" in all three axes as a result of the person entering the vehicle. Then the yaw pitch and roll remain constant for a period indicated by portions 1148, 11 SO and 1152 of functions 1124, 126 and 1128, respectively. These signatures may be explained by the user setting the device down into one position after the entering the vehicle. At this point in time, as evidenced by changes 1:142, 1144 and 1146, the rotation-detecting component is "s un" in ail three axes as a result of the person entering the vehicle. Then the yaw pitch and rod again change as indicated by portions 1154, II 56 and 11.58 of functions 1124, 1126 and 1.1 8, respectively. These signatures may be explained by the person moving the device.

§0098| hi some embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may generate an output associated with the vehicle based any of functions 1118, 1120, 1122, 1124, 11.26^', 1128 and combinations thereof, in sonic embodiments, parameter-detecting component 422 may additionally process any of functions 1 8, 1120, 1122, 1 24, 1126, 1.128 and combinations thereof to generate s ch an output. Non-limiting examples of further processes include averaging, adding, subtracting, and transforming any of functions 11.18, 112», 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128 and combinations thereof. I any of these embodiments, field-defecting component 412 may then generate a sig atu e of the vehicle based any of functions 61 , 614, 616, 61.8 and combinations thereof and based on the output generated b parameter-detecting component 422.

| 099| in the examples discussed above with respect to FIGs. <M , just as with the examples discussed above with respect to FIGs. 6-8, Che detected magnetic signals arc easily distinguishable from one another. Accordingly, the vehicles associated therewith, respectively, may additionally be easily distinguishable from one another. However, in situations where the magnetic field signatures may be somewhat similar, it may be more difficult for a device is accordance with aspects of the present invention to distinguish vehicles - solely on the detected, magnetic (or electric or electro- magnetic) fields. As such, the use of further distinguishing with at least a second, detected parameter may help distinguish the vehicles. fW10©^'} in the examples discussed above with respect to FIGs. 9-1 1 , parameter- detecting component 422 is detecting acceleration vectors as functions over a period of time. The detected acceleration signals illustrated in FIGs. 9-1 i are easily distinguishable from one another. Accordingly, even if such vehicles had similar magnetic signatures, the vehicles associated with the detected acceleration signals, respectively, may additionally be easily distinguishable from one another. n016!) The above discussed examples of IGs- 9- 1 ! are merely provided for purposes of explanation and are not limiting. Clearly, any other type of detectable parameter may be used to additionally distinguish an item or location, in accordance with aspects of the present invention,

100.102} It should be noted that the detected fields and parameters in the examples discussed above with reference to FIGs. 6- 11 are non-limiting examples. Each vehicle may have a distinct signature, just as each person may have a unique gait that will register a unique acceleration signature. An aspect of the present invention is the recording of a field signature, and in ome cases an additional parameter signature, for future use to detect a vehicle or location. 100103] in an examp e em odiment, iieid-deiectiiig component 412 ma detect magnetic field vectors associated with the approach and entry into vehicle 102, lor example as discussed above with reference to FIGs, 1 A-C. whereas parameter-detecting component 422 may detect three dimensional acceleration associated with the gait of person 104, the motion of person 104 opening door 108 and the motion of person 104 sitting in vehicle 102, Art overall signature may be generated based on the signatures generated from each of field- deiectmg component 412 and parameter-detecting component 422. f 001 4] ia another example embodiment, field-detecting component 412 may detect magnetic field vectors associated the inside of vehicle 02 while it is operating, whereas parameter-detecting component 422 may detect ambient noise associated with the running engine and road noise associated with vehicle 102 while it is operating. An overall signature may be generated based on the signatures generated from each of field-detecting component 41 and parameter-detecting component 422, f 00105] Returning to FIG. 3, after the item or foeaiion has been registered ($304), m item or location is detected (S306). For example, the next time the person approaches a vehicle, a device in accordance with aspects of the present invention would detect a field associated with the vehicle. Similarly, for example, the next time the person approaches a location, a device in accordance with aspects of the present invention would detect a field associated with the location. A more detailed discussion of registration will now be provided with additional reference to F8G.12.

|tt 106^'} FIG. J.2 illustrates an example method 80 of detecting an item or a location in accordance with aspects of the present in vention.

{00107] Method 1200 starts (51202) and a field is detected (51204). This is the same as the field being detected (8504) as discussed above with reference to method 500. For example, returning to FIG, 4, field-detecting component 412 detects a new field. For purposes of discussion, let the new field be a magnetic field corresponding to the siiperposition of magnetic fields generated by all electronic and mechanical systems in volved with the ignition of a vehicle.

{001 8] Returning to FIG. 12, once the field is detected (S1204), a signature is generated ($1206). This is similar to the signature being generated (S506) as discussed above with reference to method 588. in some embodiments, lor example as shown in FIG, 4, field-detecting component 41 may generate a signature of the vehicle based any of functions 612. 1 , 16, 618 of FIG, 6, and combinations thereof In some embodiments, field-- deleetisg component 412 may additionally process so of functions 612, 614, 616, 618 and combinations thereof to generate such a signature. Non-limiting examples of further processes include averaging, adding, subtracting, and Uaasibrming any of functions 612, 614, 616, §18 and combinations thereof ί 1091 This second signature is provided to comparing component 418 via communication hoe 448. jfiOH O} At this point, method 1 ⁽hi stops (S1288), 0 ί 111 Returning to FIG. 3, after the item or location has been detected (S3 ), it is verified (S308). For example, a device in accordance with aspects of the present invention would determine whether the newly detected vehicle is tire vehicle that was previously registered. Similarly, a device in accordance with aspects of the present invention would determine whether the newly detected location is the location that was previously registered. A more detailed discussion of registration will now be provided wills additional reference to FIG.13. et!Ij FIG, 1.3 illustrates an example method J 380 of verifying an stem or a location in accordance with aspects of the present in vention.

|ββί Ι3] Method 1380 starts (S1382_.J and the previously stored signature is accessed

(S1304). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, access component 416 retrieves the previously- stored signature from database 484 via communication line 4S4. Access component 416 then provides the retrieved, previously-stored signature to comparator 41.8 via communication line 456

|Ι) Π4] Returning to FIG. 13, now that the previously stored signature has been accessed (S1304), the signatures are compared (S13065. Fo example, as shown in FIG, 4, comparator 418 compares the retrieved, previously stored signature as provided by access component 416 with the newly generated signature as provided by field-detecting component 412. |©βΙ 15] .Returning to FIG. 13, now that the signatures have been compared (81366 the item/location may be identified ($3308). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, comparator 418 provides as output to identifying component 428 via communication line 458. If the retrieved, previously stored signature as provided by access component 41 «> matches the ^■newly generated signature as provided by field-detecting component 412, then the newly detected ^'hem location is the same item/location thai was previously registered. In such a case, identifying component 420 may indicate that the newly detected item/location is the same item/location ha was previously registered. If the retrieved, previously stored signature as provided by access component 416 does not match die newly generated signature as provided b field-detecting component 412, then the newly detected item/location is not the same item/location that was previously registered. In such a esse, identifying component 420 may indicate that the newly detected iienvioeation is the same Item/location that was previously registered. iOOl ihj At this oint, method 1300 stops tSBlO). fftftll.7} Returning to F G, 3, after the item or location .has been verified, the data is updated (S31¾). For example, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, comparator 418 may determine that the previously stored signature as provided by access component 416 does not exactly match the newly generated signature as provided by field-detecting component 411, but the difference between the previously stored signature as provided by access component 4Ϊ6 does not exactly match the newly generated signature as provided by field-detecting component 412 is within a predetermined acceptable limit, in such cases, identifying component 420 may indicate that the newly detected item/location is still the same item/location that was previously registered. Further, comparator 418 may provide the newly generated signature as provided by field-detecting component 412 to access component 41$ via communication line 4S6. Access component 416 may then provide the newly generated signature to database 404 via communication, line 454. fOOllSJ in this manner, database 404 may be "taught" to accept variations of previously registered signatures, in some embodiments, an average of recognised signatures may be stored for future use. In some embodiments, a plurality of each recognised signature may be stored for future use.

|00l 19| Returning to IG. 3, device 462 waits to detect a new field (S306), |©»l 2ί>] The example embodiments discussed above are dra n to identifying an item or location si fields associated therewith. Once identified, otter functions may be available. For example, consider the situation wherein a device is accordance with aspects of the present invention is embodied in a smartphone. in such an example, once an item (e.g., a vehicle_.! or a location, (e.g., a house) is identified, the smartphone may institute a suite of applications and turn off other applications, in a specific example embodiment, the identification of a vehicle may be used to place a smartphone i a "Vehicle Mode," wherein the ssnsrtphone svi.il operate in a particular manner because it is determined to be is a vehicle,

|M 21^'{ in accordance with aspects of the present invention discussed above, the sensors and functionalities of smartphones can be used to supplement or even replace the known vehicle-based techniques of vehicle telematics. More specifically, sma^hone-to-smartphone (when both phones are in Vehicle Mode), smar- phone-to-inirasn"ueture and utfrastructure-to- smartphone communications (again, when tne smartphone is is Vehicle Mode) can provide drivers wim a wide range of telematics services and features, while resulting in little or no additional cost to the vehicle driver (because she likely already has a smartphone) or the vehicle manufacturer (because it doesn't have to provide the purchaser of the vehicle with a smartphone and also doesn't have to embed costly vehicle telematics equipment in the vehicle). To be able to do so, however, the smartphone again has to be able to "know" that it is in Vehicle Mode and be able to determine in what vehicle it is. Ideally for various applications it is necessary to be able to determine if the smartphone is in the vehicle that is owned by the smartphone user. Aspects of the present invention enable a smartphone to know that it is in Vehicle Mode based on detected magnetic, electric, magneto-electric fields and combinations thereof

Further in accordance with the present invention, a smartphone may utilize its magnetometer function to periodicall measure the electromagnetic levels sensed at the smartphone ^*s current location. The smartphone uses its processing capabilities to try to map tire periodic electromagnetic level sensed, by the smartphone with the vehicular electromagnetic signatures stored in library, if die periodic electromagnetic levels sensed by the smartphone match any of the specific vehicle signatures stored in the library, then the processor of the smartphone may generate and/or otherwise output a signal indicating that the smartphone is located in the specific -vehicle, which in turn will be used b the Vehicle Mode detection method to trigger certain functions. |©»I 23] The Vehicle Mode relevant seasor su e may be mo itored at intervals depending on detected speed arsd location., for example, up to several times per second. The raagaeto ^•metric sensor output may be monitored dependent on the aecekrometer output as this will mdicate a movement of die phone either within the vehicle environment or of the vehicle itself.

|ββ! 24 In th drawings aad specification., there have been disclosed embodiments of the inv nt on and, although specific terms are employed,, they are used is a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of die invention being set forth is the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent of the United States is;

1. A device, for use with a database, said device comprising:

a field-detecting component operable to detect at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field and to generate a detected field signature based on the detected one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

as in ut component operable to input the detected field signature into the database; an accessing component operable to access the detected field signature from the database;

a comparing component operable to generate a comparison signal; and

mi identifying component operable to identif one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal,

wherein said field-detecting component is further operable to detect a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field and to generate a second detected field signature based on the detected second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field, and

wherein said comparing component is operable to generate the comparison signal based on a comparison of the delected field signature and the second detected field signature.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein said field-detecting component is operable to detect the at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field as a function over a period of time.

3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising:

a parameter-detecting component operable to detect a parameter and to generate a parameter signal based on the detected parameter,

wherein said identifying component is operable to identify the one of an item and a location based, additionally on the parameter signal.

4. The device of cl i : 3, wherein, said parameter-detecting component is operable to detect, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of a velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angul r acceleration, geodetic position., sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometrics, contents of surrounding atmosphere and combinations thereof.

5, The device of claim L further comprising a eonmnmication com onent operable to sresess!y communicate with a network.

6. The device of claim 1 ,

wherein said freld-deteetmg com onent is operable to detect a ma netic field.

wherein said input component is further operable to input an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

wherein said field-detecting component is further operable to detect a second magnetic field and to generate a second detected field signature based on the detected second magnetic field, aud

wherein said identifying component is further operable, based on the association, to identify the vehicle as the item.

7, The de vice of claim 6, further comprising:

a verification component operable to provide a request for verification based oa the comparison signal and the association,

wherein said input component is further operable to .input a verification based on the request for verification..

8. A method, for use with a database, said method comprising;

detecting, vis s field-detecting c mponent, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

generating, via the field-detecting component, a detected field signature based on the detected one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

inputting, vis so. input component, the detected field signature into the database; accessing, via an accessing component, the detected field signature from the database; generating, via a comparing component a comparison signal;

identifying, via an identifying component, one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal; detecting, via the field-detecting componeat, a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an. electro-magnetic field: and

generating, via the field-detecting component, a second detected field signature based n the detected second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and m electro-magnetic fscld, wherein said generating a comparison signal comprises enerat ng the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the second detected field signature,

9. The method of claim 8, wherein said detecting comprises detecting the at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and as electro-magnetic field as a inaction over a period of time.

10. The method of claim S, further comprising:

detecting, via a parameter-detecting component, a parameter; and

generating, via the parameter-detecting component, a parameter ssgnai based ort the detected parameter,

wherein said identifying comprises identifying the one of an item: and a location based additionally on the parameter signal.

1 1. The method of claim 10, wherein said detecting a parameter comprises detecting, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of a velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometries, contents of snrrousdtng atmosphere and combinations thereof.

12. The method of claim 8, further comprising wirelessiy communicating, via a communication component with a network.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising:

inputting, via the input component is further operable to input an association; and idenii tying, via the identifying component, a vehicle,

wherein said detecting, via s field-detecting component, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field comprises detecting detect a magnetic field, wherein said inputting an association composes inputting an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

wherein said detecting a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field comprises detecting a second magnetic field,

here n said generating a second detected field signature comprises generating a second detected field signature based on the detected second magnetic field, and

wherein said ide.ntiiy.ing a vehicle comprises identifying, based on the association, the vehicle as the stem.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising;

providing, via a verification component, operable to provide a request, for verification based on the comparison signal aod the association; and

inputting, via the input component, a. verification based on the request for verification.

15. A non-iomsitory, tangible, computer-readable media having computer-readable instructions stored thereon, .for use with a database, the computer-readable instructions being capable of being read b a computer and being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method comprising".

detecting, via a .field-detecting component, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic- field and an electro-magnetic field;

generating, via the field-detecting component, a detected field signature based on the detected one of an electric field, magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

inputting, via an input component, the detected field signature into the database;

accessing, via ars accessing component, the detected field signature from the database; generating, via a comparing component, a comparison signal;

identifying, via an identifying component, one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal;

detecting, vi the field-detecting component, a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field; and

generating, via (he field-detecting component, a second detected field signature based on the detected second one of an electric field, s magnetic field and so electro-magnetic field. wherein said generating a comparison signal comprises generating the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the second detected field signature.

16. The non-transitory, tang le, computer-readable media of claim .15, wherein the computer-readable instructions are capable of instructing the computer to perform the method such thai said detecting comprises detecting the at least one of as electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field ss a function over a period of rime.

17. The non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media of claim 15, the computer- readable instructions being capable of being read by a computer and being capable of instructing She computer to perform the method further comprising:

detecting, via a para eter-detectiag component, a parameter; and

generating, via the parameter-detecting component, a parameter signal based on the d erected p a r amei er ,

wherein said identifying comprises identifying the one of an item and a location based additionally on the parameter signal.

18. The no.n~tt¾ns.ito.ry_s tangible, computer-readable media of claim .17, wherein the computer-readable instructions arc capable of instructing the computer to perform the method such, that said detecting a parameter comprises detecriag, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of a velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometrics, contents of surrounding atmosphere and eombmstlons thereof

19. The non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media of claim .15. the computer- readable instructions being capable of being read by a computer and being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method further comprising wireless!y communicating, via a communication component, with a network.

20. The non-traasitory, tangible, computer-readable media of claim 15, the computer- readable instructions being capable of instructing the computer to perform, the .method further comprising; inputting, via the input, component is further operable to input an association; and identifying, via the identifying component, a vehicle,

where n said detecting, via s field-detecting component, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field comprises detecting detect a magnetic field,

wherein said inputting as association comprises inputting an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

wherein said generating a second detected field signature comprises generating a second detected field signature based on the detected second magnetic field., and

wherein said identifying a vehicle comprises identifying, based on the association, the vehicle as the item.

21 . The non-transitory, tangible, compxtter-readahle media of claim 20, the comptjter- readable instructions being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method further composing;

providing, via a verification component, operable to provide a request for verification based on the comparison signal and the association; and

inputting, via the input component, a verification based on the request .for verification.

22. A device, for use with a database having stored therein, at least one of a first plurality of signatures, a second plurality of signatures and a third plurality of signatures, the first plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electric fields, respectively, the second plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of magnetic fields, respectively, the third pluralit of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electro-magnetic fields, respectively, sard device comprising:

an accessing component operable to access one of the first plurality of signatures, the second plurality of signatures and the third plurality of signatures from the database;

a field-detecting component operable to detect at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field, sod to generate a detected field signature based on the detected one of said fields;

a comparing component operable to generate a comparison signal^* and an. identifying component operable to identify one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal,

wherein, when said field-detecting component is operable to detect an electric field, said c mparison com onent is operable to generate the comparison signal based on s comparison of the detected field signature and the first plurality of signatures,

wherein, when said field-detecting component is operable to detect a magnetic field, sard comparison component is operable to generate the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the second plurality of signatures, and

wherein, when said field-detecting component is operable to detect an electromagnetic field, said comparison component is operable to generate the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the third plurality of signatures.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein said field-detecting component is operable to detect the at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field as a inaction over a period of time.

24. The de vice of claim 22, further comprising:

a parameter-detecting component operable to detect a parameter and to generate a pas mcur signal based on the detected parameter,

wherein said identifying component is operable to identify the one of an item and a location based additionally on the parameter signal.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein said parameter-detecting component is operable to detect, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of a velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometrics, contents of surrounding atmosphere and combinations thereof

26. Tire device of claim 22, further comprising a. communication component operable to wireiessly communicate with a network,

27. The de vice of claim 22,

wherein said field-detecting component is operable to detect a magnetic field, wherein said input component, further operable to i t an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

wherein said fkld-detecthig component is further operable to detect a second magnetic field and to generate a second detected field signature based on the detected second magnetic field, and

28. The device of claim 27, further comprising:

a verification component operable to provide a -request tot^' verification based on the comparison signal and the association,

wherein said input component is further operable to input a verification based on the request for verification.

29. A m od, for use with a database having stored therein, at least one of a first plurality of signatures, a second plurality of signatures and a third plurality of signatures,, the first ^•plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electric fields, respectively, the second plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of magnetic fields, respectively, the third plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electro-magnetic fields, respectively, said method comprising:

accessing, via an accessing component, one of the first plurality of signatures, the second luralit of signatures and the third plurality of signatures from the database;

detecting, via a field-detecting component, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

generating, via a field-detecting component, a detected field signature based on the detected one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

generating, via a comparing component, a comparison signal; and

identifying,, via an identifying component, one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal,

wherein, when said detecting comprises detecting an electric field, sard generating comprises generating the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the first plurality of signatures, wherein, when said detecting comprises detecting a magnetic field, said generating comprises generating me comparison s al based on a comparison of the detected field si gnature and the second plurality of signatures, and

where n, when said detecting comprises detecting an electro-magnetic field, said generating comprises generating the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the third plurality of signatures.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein said detecting comprises detecting the at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field as a function over a period of time.

3 i - The method of claim 29, farther comprising:

detecting, via a parameter-detecting component, a. parameter; and

generating, via the parameter-detecting component, a parameter signal based on the d elected ρ a ra e e ,

32, The method of claim 31 , wherein said detecting a parameter comprises detecting, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometries, contents of surrounding atmosphere and combinations thereof,

33, The method of claim 29, further comprising wirelessly communicating, via a communication component, with a network.

34, The method of claim 29, tardier comprising;

inputting, vis the input component is farther operable to input an association; and identifying, via the identifying component, a vehicle,

wherein said detecting, via a field- detecting component, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field comprises detecting detect a magnetic field, wherein said inputting an association comprises inputting an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

wherein said detecting a second one of an electric field, a magnetic field and as electro-magnetic field comprises detecting a second magnetic field,

wherein said generating a second detected field signature comprises generating a second detected field signature based on the detected second magnetic field, and

wherein said identifying a vehicle comprises identifying, based on the association, the vehicle as the stem.

35. The method of cl im: 34, further comprising;

inputting, vis the input component, a verification based on the request for verification.

36. A non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media having computer-readable instructions scored thereon, for use with a database having stored therein, at least one of a first plurality of signatures, a second pluralit of signatures and a third plurality of signatures, the first plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electric fields, respectively, the second plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of magnetic fields, respectively, the third plurality of signatures corresponding to a plurality of electro-magnetic fields, respectively, the computer-readable instructions being capabk of being read by a. computer and being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method comprising:

accessing, via as accessing component, one of the first plurality of signatures, the second plurality of signatures and the third plurality of signatures from the database;

generating, via a field -detecting component, a detected field signature based on the detected one of an electric field, a magnetic field and an electro-magnetic field;

generating, via a comparing component, a comparison signal; and

identifying, via an identifying component, one of an item and a location based on the comparison signal wherein, when said detecting comprises detecting an electric field, said generating comprises generating me comparison signal based on a comparison of She detected field signature and the first plurality of signatures,

'herem, when said detecting comprises detecting a ma netic field, said generating comprises generating the comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the second plurality of signatures, and

wherein, when said detecting comprises detecting an electro-magnetic field, said generating comprises generating t e comparison signal based on a comparison of the detected field signature and the third plurality of signatures.

37. The non-transitory, tan bl , computer-readable media of claim 36, wherein the computer-readable instructions are capable of instructiog the computer to perform the method such that said detecting comprises detecting the at least one of as electric field, a magnetic field and an electro- magnetic field as a function over a period of time.

38. The no.n.-irans.itory_s tangible, computer-readable media of claim 36, the computer- readable instructions being capable of being read by a computer and being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method further comprising:

detecting, via a parameter-detecting component, a parameter; and

generating, via the parameter-detecting component, a parameter signal based on the d elected p a amei er,

39. The son-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media of claim 38, wherein the computer-readable instructions are capable of instructing the computer to perform the method such that said detecting a parameter comprises detecting, as the parameter, one of the group consisting of velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, geodetic position, sound, temperature, vibrations, pressure, biometries, contents of surrounding atmosphere and combinations thereof

40 The non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable .media of claim 36. the computer- readable instruction being capable of being read by a computer and being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method further comprising wireiessly communicating, via a communication component, with a network.

41. The non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable -media of claim 36, the computer- readable instructions being capable of instructing She computer to perform the method further comprising:

inputting, via the in ut component is f rther operable to input an association: d identifying, via the identifying component, a vehicle,

wherein said detecting, via a field-detecting component,, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field and as electro-magnetic field comprises detecting detect a magnetic field,

wherein said inputting an association comprises inputting an association between a vehicle and the detected magnetic field,

whereis said detecting a secoad one of an electric field, a magnetic field and n electro-magnetic field comprises detecting a second magnetic field,

wherein said identifying a vehicle comprises sdaititying, based on the association, the vehicle as the item.

42. The non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media of claim 41 , the computer- readable instructions being capable of instructing the computer to perform the method further comprising:

providing, via a verification component, operable to provide a request, for verification based on the comparison signal and the association; and

inputting, via the input component, a verification based on the request for verification.